Vessels of Comfort Lifeline for Today Tuesday, January 30, 2024

 And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. (Colossians 2:13-14)

One of the enemies of our growth is religion. Why is this case? When rules and regulations come and take the place of God in our lives, that stunts our growth. Instead of obeying God, the believer becomes consumed with following tradition. Many times, believers may make a religious leader an idol, focusing more on what they say or think, putting the person above Christ. 

It takes a discerning heart to know when religion has taken the place of God. Why is this difficult? It is difficult because there is usually a kernel of truth in it. That is what makes it believable. Some of the things I caution folks about religion is that it usually comes with a condemning spirit that confines or restricts (Rom 8:1; 2 Cor 3:17). 

This verse in Colossians 2 is powerful in that it reminds us that Jesus erased the handwriting of requirements against us. He took it out of the way and nailed it to the cross. If someone tries to put you in bondage and add additional requirements to salvation, please compare their teachings to the Word of God. 

MEDITATION: Lord, I just want to obey You. Keep my heart singly-focused so that my focus, time, and attention are on You, alone. In the name of Jesus, Amen.